Module Code - Title:
MU4021
-
INTRODUCTION TO SONGWRITING
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the relevant skills and basic creative processes entailed in songwriting. By creating new work in a collaborative environment, students will develop as reflective artists and composers, engaging in meaningful self and peer-to-peer critique.
Syllabus:
Through weekly workshops, students will experiment with different methods of developing original songs, considering simple elements of melody, lyrics and structure of song.Through weekly lectures and engagement with post-graduate students of MA Songwriting, students will be exposed to a range of different songwriters of varying genres and styles. They will be encouraged to locate their own creative practice within the wider experience of songwriting, engaging in reflective practice through group discussion, and individual journaling and self-evaluation.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
Develop ability to critique own and others creative output.
Develop discipline of regular reflective practice.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
N/A
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
Develop songwriting practice, both technically and artistically, in the context of group workshops and individual study.
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Taught through a combination of weekly group songwriting workshops, lectures with visiting and resident singers, songwriters, composers and creative writers and individual creative study. Students will develop a foundational understanding of their own creative practice as songwriters with the support of peers and faculty.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Zollo, P (2003)
Songwriters on Songwriting
, De Capo Press
Simos, M (2014)
Songwriting Strategies: A 360 degree approach
, Berklee Press
Weissman, D (2001)
Songwriting: the words, the music & the money
, Hal Leonard
Baker, F (2016)
Songwriting: research, theory, methods, and practice
, Nordic journal of music therapy
Other Relevant Texts:
Dylan, B (1985)
Lyrics: 1962 - 1985
, Alfred A. Knopf: Rev Sub Edition
Cohen, L. (2009)
The Lyrics of Leonard Cohen
, Omnibus Press
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
stephen.tj.ryan@ul.ie